US forces could get closer to battlefield for Mosul offensive

The Hill, Jan 25, 2016- U.S. top military officer says it’s possible American troops may edge closer to the battlefield with Iraqi forces as they prepare to retake Mosul from the ISIS.
 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr. told reporters Sunday that he would make recommendations to President Obama after discussions with top U.S. commanders in Iraq and Iraqi officials.
“I’m prepared to recommend a level of accompaniment that will allow us to be successful,” said Dunford, according to DoD News.
Dunford said discussions with Iraqi officials will determine whether U.S. forces could also advise the Iraqi army at the brigade level.
A typical Army brigade consists of about 3,000 to 5,000 troops.
Last week, Army Col. Steve Warren, spokesman for the campaign against ISIS, said retaking Mosul could require eight brigades.